Though Lada is the punchline of many jokes outside its native country of Russia, the brand run by AvtoVAS has plans for a major export operation that could see more of its cars sold all over Europe, perhaps even in the U.K. Normally we walk right by the Lada booth at various international auto shows, since we've since their cars before... back in the '70s and '80s when they were sold with other brands' badges on their hoods.

The Lada C Concept, however, is a genuine attempt by the automaker to design something fresh that's engineered on modern day mechanicals. To achieve that end, a deal was struck with MagnaSteyr, a mercenary engineering and manufacturing firm that will design and build for you whatever you want – for a price. Lada contracted MagnaSteyr to develop the C Concept's mechanicals, which are destined to underpin the automaker's next-generation lineup of cars and CUVs. In addition, MagnaSteyr has developed them to meet European safety and emissions standards, which opens up the door for Lada in many new markets.It's not known whether the C Concept is destined for production, but the three-door hatch is relatively easy on the eyes, at least compared to the ancient designs of current Ladas. It's powered by a 2.0L four-cylinder, which for its size should provide plenty of grunt.